A Russian drone struck Kyiv's Pivnichnyi Bridge on Sunday morning, damaging the roadway as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz began a surprise visit to the Ukrainian capital.

The strike marked the second consecutive day the Northern Bridge had been hit, following earlier attacks on the Southern Bridge earlier in the week. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported the incident on Telegram, noting that emergency services responded to the scene. Video footage verified by multiple outlets showed a drone impacting the structure and producing a fireball while vehicles were still crossing.

Merz arrived by train under tight security amid air raid sirens. He traveled with Economy Minister Katarina Reiche and business leaders from the defense and energy sectors. The visit focused on finalizing a major defense partnership, including a new military aid package exceeding $1 billion that features drone interceptors designed to counter Russia's jet-powered drones.

Russia had issued a warning the previous day against foreign visitors to Kyiv, claiming they faced mortal danger from intensified strikes. Merz dismissed the threats and reaffirmed Germany's commitment, stating on social media that Ukraine faces decisive weeks ahead and that the country can rely on German support. He noted that Germany's security depends on the outcome of the conflict.

The chancellor and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met to discuss cooperation on drone and missile production. They also paid tribute to fallen Ukrainian soldiers. Russia has escalated attacks on Kyiv infrastructure in recent days, targeting bridges and energy facilities ahead of the fifth winter of the war.

No widespread casualties were reported from the bridge strike, though authorities in other regions noted injuries from separate attacks. Merz described the Russian actions as barbarous attacks on civilians that must stop, emphasizing Europe's stake in halting Russian aggression.